Research Specialization

Paleoecology: My dissertation research included a 370,000 yr record of vegetation and fire history around Lake Titicaca (Bolivia/Peru). I also conducted a modern analog study in which pollen, charcoal, and limnological data were collected from 35+ lakes in Peru and Bolivia along an elevational gradient. I have also developed an interest in other areas of ecosystem dynamics and can be found conducting gap analyses in local forests.

STEM Literacy: I am frequently conducting outreach in K-12 schools on ecological topics, especially climate change. In addition, I partner with Westfield State's Center for Teacher Education and Research (CENTER) to offer teacher workshops. I present on pedagogical topics such as shifting lessons toward inquiry, debunking science myths and misconceptions, and connecting the Next Generation Science Standards to the Common Core.